Just when I began to think maternity wear would be my only option until baby arrives, I revisited my wardrobe and realized that I actually have a lot of items roomy enough to accommodate my mid-pregnancy baby bump. Nothing I’m wearing in these pictures is “maternity.” I’m sure that as my pregnancy progresses, I’ll need to purchase more maternity-specific clothing…but the takeaway is that maternity wear doesn’t have to be restrictive, and you’d be surprised at how many items in your closet will follow you throughout pregnancy, especially with the roomier pieces that are in style right now. You might be bump shopping now without even knowing it ;).

I took these pictures when I was 20 weeks pregnant (I’m now at 23 weeks – almost 6 mos). For me, dressing for pregnancy’s halfway mark has been a challenge. I don’t want to wear anything too form fitting, but if I wear things that are even slightly loose, I just look like I’ve gained weight…with no baby excuse!

The silver sweater is from GAP (old), and it’s layered over a fantastic long sleeved tee from J. Jill (similar here). I love the shirt because it’s longer than your standard long sleeved tee. The skirt is by Lyssé (gifted), a brand focused not only on fashion – but also on fit and comfort. This skirt smooths and provides control in all the right places. You can learn more about the brand here, or there are a ton of other Lyssé items, including their famous leggings, available here at Bloomingdale’s.

The coat is from Ann Taylor LOFT, and it was such a steal when I got it a few seasons ago. The buttons kept falling off and I was ready to call it quits…until I went to M&J Trimming to find replacement buttons that I love even more than the nautical ones that were on the coat when I bought it. I didn’t mind in investing there…because the coat was so low in price (on sale for $60 or thereabouts).

The boots are super versatile and by Enzo Angiolini. Didn’t I tell you that I was a girl who likes both high AND low? This outfit is a perfect example – everything I’m wearing is super affordable.

So…I’ve been holding on to a little secret and there’s NO hiding it any longer! I’m thrilled to tell you that my husband and I are expecting a baby this August. That makes me five, that’s right, FIVE months pregnant! The first few months of my pregnancy were a bit rough (I basically felt sick every day!), so until now, I wasn’t quite ready to share our exciting news on the blog. But, now that I have my heels firmly planted in the second trimester (and I’m showing), it’s time to celebrate baby both off and on The Pretty Dish!

There are so many things that come along with expecting a baby. Though I’m not starving all the time, I have a whole new appreciation for food. I’ve had regular cravings for falafel and sweet fruit juice. I’ve also come to appreciate the clothing in my pre-pregnancy wardrobe that is a little looser in fit! I’m learning a ton about dressing for pregnancy, and, the dreaded maternity department.

These pictures were taken a few weeks ago, when I was about 4 ½ months along. Not one item that I’m wearing is “maternity” because the top has a loose fit and the pants have a very low waist.

All Saints Top (sold out, but this top has a similar drapey fit) | Gap Really Skinny Pants (similar here) | C. Wonder Necklace (sold out, but several other cute sale styles here) | Nine West Flats

A quick note about the top I’m wearing. I LOVE it – and was so excited to see that Halle Berry was wearing the exact same top during her recent appearance on the Queen Latifah Show!

image via facebook.com/QueenLatifah

I have several photo shoots coming up, so you’ll be on bump watch with me as the baby grows. And, you’ll get to see me doing my best to embrace maternity fashion!

I took these pictures way back in December and am just getting around to posting them now! This is an easy work look (you know how much I love those) that incorporates denim, layering, neon and a fun striped print.

The sleeveless dress is, believe it or not, is by Merona (from Target). It’s no longer available, but you can find a similar frock here. I’ve layered the dress over a fitted black v-neck that I’ve had for years. For a similar look you can really layer it over any long sleeved black top you have, as long as it’s not too baggy. You’ve seen the J. Crew vest before (here and here) and the belt is also from J. Crew (similar here). A skinny neon belt can do so much to elevate an outfit, and here I think it adds an unexpected pop of color.

The glasses are my Warby Parker Prestons (seen here) ) and the shoes are by Christian Louboutin (seen here and here).

What a week this will be. It started with another crazy snowstorm, and it’ll continue with three business trips for me. THREE. I know, it’s a lot. I’m heading to DC in the morning for a day of meetings, flying to LA on Thursday for a photo shoot, and going back to DC again over the weekend for a Monday meeting. You may notice that I’ve been posting a bit less frequently – we can all blame the day job for that!

Anyhow, business travel typically calls for a certain type of attire. I usually like to wear all black when I travel for work…I’ll pack several black basics that are easy to mix and match. The top and skirt I’m wearing in this outfit post are perfect examples. I’ve had both for several years and they’re super easy to pack because they don’t wrinkle. I also don’t think you can EVER go wrong with a paper bag skirt (example here and here).

Almost as important as your business travel attire is the luggage you bring with you. A beat up suitcase with holes doesn’t necessarily send the most professional message. Nor does a neon green duffle (depending on your industry — disregard if you work in an uber creative field). The carry-on I’m holding in the pictures is (surprise) by Sonia Kashuk for Target. It’s SUPER inexpensive (it’s currently on sale for under $30) and bold enough to make a statement without reading unprofessional. Its size makes it PERFECT for a one to two night trip, and I’ve already used this as a weekend bag a few times. I also like the fact that there are two removable clear cosmetic pouches that adhere to the inside with velcro. This one’s an all around love, especially since you can’t beat the price.

Wish me luck with this busy week and thanks for your continued interest and support. I love my readers!